Monday, April 2, 2012

The question arises of how do we arrive at a state of yoga and what should we do and not do?

Patanjali states in sutras 1.12-1.16:

ABHYASA VAIRAGYABHYAM TANNIRODHAH

These mental modifications are restrained by practice and non-attachment.

TATRA STHITAU YATNO’BHYASAH

Of these two effort toward steadiness of mind is practice (effort must be continuous.)

SA TU DIRGHA KALA NAIRANTARYA SATKA RASEVITO DRDHAHUMIH

Practice becomes firmly grounded when well attended to for a long time, without break and in all earnestness.

According to Desikachar,“ This sutra emphasizes the need to approach practice soberly with a positive, self-disciplined attitude and with a long term view toward eventual success.”

DRSTANUSRAVIKA VISAYA VITRSNASYA VASIKARA SAMJNA VAIRGYAM

At the highest level there is an absence of any cravings, either for the fulfillment of the senses or for extra ordinary experiences.

As we develop our practice along the correct lines, we find that our ability to discipline ourselves and reject intrusive influences grows (Desikachar).

TAT PARAM PURSA KHYATER GUNAVAITRSNYAM

When the individual has achieved complete understanding of his true self, he will no longer be disturbed by the distracting influences within and around him.

In the end this higher form of detachment develops from self understanding. The mind becomes detached from its personal desires. The desires are not suppressed. One is just no longer disturbed by them.

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About Me

The ancient texts of the Hatha Yoga tradition describe Yoga as a journey that culminates in sublime success and happiness. These teachings describe how through perfection of body, breath, mind, and spirit we access it. I'm dedicated to the path of authentic experience and I endeavor to share these traditional Yoga practices with others and help them to unveil their own unique path to Yogic transformation, peace and happiness.